According to our insiders, Chevy has big plans with the new generation of the full-size pickup truck. Some of them refer to the new off-road performance version, which is expected to come next year, as the 2021 Chevy Silverado ZR2. This model would come with significant upgrades, in order to provide exceptional off-road performances. Currently, Chevy doesn’t have a version that can compete with F-150 Raptor. So, we may presume GM engineers will put a lot of attention on this particular version, which should come by the end of this year.
At this point, it’s still early to talk about details. Still, we may presume that the focus will be on providing the best-possible off-road performances. Therefore, we count on significant upgrades in terms of suspension and chassis, while visual upgrades are expected as well. On the other side, it’s hard to say whether some novelties are about to come under the hood or not. The new model should hit the market by the end of the year. Still, some reports suggest we might see the 2021 Chevy Silverado ZR2 concept version presented first.
2021 Chevy Silverado ZR2 Design
As we’ve just mentioned, the focus will be on off-road upgrades. Currently, Chevy doesn’t have a version of this truck that can compete with the F-150 Raptor. There is a model called TralBoss in the offer, but its upgrades are relatively modest compared to the features we can find in the Blue Oval dinosaur. This version comes with things like a lifted suspension, skid plates, upgraded shocks, off-road tires, hill descent control, an automatic locking rear differential, and a two-speed transfer case.
On the other side, the ZR2 is expected to bring everything to the next level. We presume the formula will be the same as for the smaller Colorado ZR2. It comes with excellent Multimatic Dynamic Suspension Spool Valve (DSSV) dampers, which would be even more upgraded for this occasion. Of course, we also count on things like additional skid plates, off-road tires, exclusive wheels and many more things.
Styling
Naturally, we expect to see this model with several exclusive styling details. Simply, we count on upgrades that will emphasize the model’s off-road character. In practice, this means we may count on things like new bumpers, which would provide higher approach and departure angles. Also, things that come to mind are goodies like exclusive color options, wheels and lots of black plastic surfaces.
Another thing that comes to mind is body styles. We doubt that this model will be offered in a single cab version. Still, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see this truck both in double and crew cab layouts.
Interior
Of course, upgrades on the inside are expected as well. First of all, keep in mind that the new cabin is coming for all Silverado models in the next year. This includes a completely redesigned dashboard, with new styling, better materials and higher overall quality. We presume the new dash will look pretty similar to the new Tahoe and Suburban models.
This particular model will probably come with further upgrades. At this point, it’s hard to talk about details, but we may presume we will see some exclusive color schemes, as well as things like sportier seats and steering wheel. Naturally, a couple of “ZR2” badges would be expected as well. Finally, there is always a chance to see a couple of novelties on the list of standard equipment.
2021 Chevy Silverado ZR2 Engine
When it comes to the powertrain, it’s not hard to presume that the 2021 Chevy Silverado ZR2 will come with Silverado’s most powerful unit under the hood. Of course, we are talking about a 6.2-liter V8 engine, which features a max output of 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. That’s a quite respectable number but still at the same level as the twin-turbo that is hiding under Raptor’s hood, which puts out around 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. Moreover, both Ford and Ram are preparing hi-performance versions with 700+ horsepower, so it won’t be a surprise if we see this truck in the offer with supercharged V8 in the offer as well.
Some sources suggest GM might go in a different direction and offer a diesel version of this truck. The 2021 Chevy Silverado ZR2 Diesel would come with a familiar 3.0-liter V6, which delivers around 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque.
2021 Chevy Silverado ZR2 Release Date and Price
Most reports suggest that the new off-road version should hit the market by the end of the year. When it comes to the 2021 Chevy Silverado ZR2, we presume that base versions would go around 55.000 dollars.
Sources: Car and Driver, Motor1, GM Authority
